FIFTEEN YEARS ago when she debuted her first fashion show at Reflections, I already saw the promising career that lies ahead of this amazing designer. From starting a couture shop and Barong Tagalog store to launching her own ready-to-wear line: those refining years have brought her this far. It is an honor to feature her in my column and talk about her new R-T-W (ready-to-wear) line.

I am delighted to present to you—one of my esteemed acquaintances and an inspiration to many—Ms. Lou Razon.

As I previously mentioned, I met Lou in 2000 when I featured her in my fashion-gala awards show, Reflections. She was featured 3 consecutive times since then. Without an ounce of contention, she did earn her right to be awarded such exposure because of her exquisite designs – and I am just as honored to showcase her talent through my shows.

Lou’s quite known for her Philippine-inspired creations that involve a mixture of embroidery, lace, silk organza and silk chiffon. Akin to her sophisticated personality is her style which picks on vibrant colors and jewel tones, as well as neutrals like black gray and beige. Most of her designs are crafted with delicate draping to add that majestic touch only Lou knows how. Her patterns are all original and very unique in its own special way. As her website bio describes, “Every piece is treated like an obra.”

Born in Manila, Philippines, Lou moved to the US in 1990. To further her already-innate passion for design, she mastered in Fashion Design at the Art Institute in Los Angeles and became the best designer graduate of the year. Prior to that, Lou studied Bachelor of Arts in Interior design in the Philippines, (she) has traveled to Taiwan, Hong Kong, China and London to gain more knowledge and study the different styles and approach in fashion designing. In 1997, she started doing couture design for clients who believe in custom crafted, made to measure, one-of-a-kind dresses. She started her couture business in 1997 focusing on bridal and evening wear.

Now based in Glendale, California, Lou’s elegant and unique clothing designs have reached a growing demand among women over the years. She was recognized as, “Newsmaker of the Year” by Dyaryo Pilipino, Most Promising Designer (awarded by then Consul General of the Philippines, Edwin Bael), and has earned more awards for her talent given by SIPA Search to Involve Pilipino Americans, Virgo Awards and Celebrity Chronicle. Lou was the very first Filipino designer that walked the red carpet at the Oscars, greeted with rave reviews in 2002, and heralded her arrival as a new and important Filipino designer.

After perfecting her skill in garment fit and construction, Lou decided to pursue her ultimate dream of designing her Ready-to-wear line. Thus, in 2015, ‘Lou Lou’ was created.

Lou Lou couture debut

Debuting in 2016 for Fashion Week LA is Lou’s name brand called LouLou, a contemporary women’s fashion that is distinctive, feminine and innovative. Her mission statement is to design clothing that shows versatility and femininity.

Lou Lou expresses classic femininity. Sshe gets her inspiration from the classic cuts of the 40s. Her designs exude elegance with simple, clean lines. Use of fabrics like brocade, wool and lace is visible in her collection. She opts for vibrant colors in her 2016 line, royal blue and red stand are stand outs. Black and nude are incorporated in her collection.

Lou is also the woman behind Miss Philippines USA as its Creative Director and Executive Producer. Known for its reputable standing, the pageant has been endowing Fil-Am women with grace, exemplary morale, and able to be an Ambassador of Goodwill.

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Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

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Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration . To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com.